Meet Jessica Laurel | Calligrapher, Business Owner, and Regulatory Affairs Project Manager

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessica Laurel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I’ve learned that setting boundaries helps me stay focused and motivated in my work life balance. I have a very go with the flow personality, but with that said it helps (and is almost necessary) to set aside distractions and schedule time to plan, work, workout, clean, walk, read and most importantly, rest. I try to make time for everything, but also not overwhelm myself by taking on too much. Much easier said than done, of course! I have a full time job and running a creative business, so time blocking and prioritizing has become my friend. Balance is investing your time in the right places. There’s a harmony in the day-to-day to fit in both work and life (and rest).

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
To be where I am today in my career as a Regulatory Affairs Project Manager and Calligrapher/Business Owner wouldn’t have been possible if there weren’t road blocks and challenges along the way.

A few years ago I was in Fashion Marketing and I thought that was my end goal. Growing up I always thought I’d end up there until years passed and I no longer wanted to be part of that world. It’s truly a blessing in disguise because if it weren’t for the PR gifting we’d do that included calligraphy on them, I’d probably never even explore that interest. These were my first projects!

My takeaway from that experience is that challenges make you stronger and more resilient, and it’ll likely lead you where you’re meant to be once you push past it.

My brand, Ink and Rhythm Calligraphy represents my journey in finding my rhythm and stepping outside my comfort zone in my business. I made a promise to myself to invest in at least 2 calligraphy classes per year and to continuously grow as an artist and business owner.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I still feel like a tourist in LA so I have yet to explore all the hidden gems but one of my faves is Howlin’ Rays especially on the weekend when chicken and waffles are available! Before the pandemic id have no problem waiting in line for 2 hours mouth watering Nashville hot chicken and awesome service.

And when in LA, you’re bound to run into a dirty dog cart – it’s a must

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This shoutout is dedicated to those who have supported me on this journey. Even as simple as a follow on Instagram or as big as commissioning me for events and ordering from my shop. My mom and dad who have never doubted my talents, my boyfriend Ricky for always encouraging me to push forward even when I’m so tired or when my self doubt would start making its way back in my head, my business coach Rosie (@wandercrafter) who helps me navigate unknown territory of running a creative business, the amazing and talented creativepreneurs I’ve met this past year for the guidance and kindness each person has given and for all my friends who are really family – these are my cheerleaders, my hype-women and men, and first customers. I’m blessed to be surrounded by so many wonderful people in my life that have supported me, and this shoutout is for them! Throwing a cliché in here, but it’s true when I say I wouldn’t be where I am today without the family I have around me.

Website: www.inkandrhythmcalligraphy.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/inkandrhythmcalligraphy

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicalaurel